The source of familiar tropes such as Big Brother, Orwell's 1984 novel tells the bleak story of Winston Smith, an editor responsible for historical revisionism in the all-seeing Ministry of Truth. Struggling to exist in the controlling future state of Oceania, Smith begins a personal rebellion against the terrifying ruling party (the Party) and falls in love with the wrong girl.

Previous adaptations of the novel include the 1956 film of Michael Anderson and the 1984 release which starred John Hurt. Orwell's inspired vision still has major influences in contemporary science fiction works, with this week's release of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay a prime example.

Sony Pictures has already lined up James Graham (Finding Neverland) to pen the script, while Scott Rudin will produce, having previously worked with Greengrass on the Oscar-nominated Captain Philips. Here's hoping they do it justice.